Trump demands trade payments from Canada and Mexico, threatens new EU tariffs

US President Donald Trump is set to discuss newly imposed tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on February 3.

Trump justified the tariffs by claiming that Canada and Mexico "owe the United States a lot of money" and expressed confidence that they would comply, Caliber.Az reports referring to international media sources.

“And I’m sure they will pay,” he stated.

On January 21, Trump announced that starting February 1, the United States could introduce a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada. He framed the move as both a protective measure for American businesses and an incentive for Canada and Mexico to intensify efforts against fentanyl trafficking.

He later issued an order for the tariffs to be officially implemented on February 4.

In addition to North American tariffs, Trump also confirmed plans to impose additional trade duties on the European Union, though he did not specify a timeline.

Trump argued that European nations have been taking advantage of the United States and declared that Washington is determined to respond with stricter trade policies. “This will definitely happen, and very soon,” he warned.

Trump pointed to a US trade deficit with the EU exceeding $300-350 billion as justification for the measures. He criticized European countries for not purchasing American cars and agricultural products, while the US continues to import large quantities of European goods. "Such behaviour is unacceptable," he stated.

Beyond the EU, Trump also criticised the United Kingdom’s trade policies, though he suggested that a resolution could be reached due to his "good relations" with the UK government.

By Tamilla Hasanova